Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a high-strength steel sheet excellent in terms of
workability which is optimum for manufacturing automotive outer panels, structural
skeleton members, and other kinds of machine structural parts and to a method for
manufacturing the high-strength steel sheet.
Background Art
[0002] Nowadays, an improvement in automobile fuel efficiency is an important issue to be
solved from the viewpoint of global environment conservation. Accordingly, there is
an active trend toward reducing the weight of an automobile body by reducing the thickness
of automobile parts as a result of increasing the strength of a material for the automobile
body.
[0003] Generally, it is necessary to increase the proportion of hard phases such as martensite
and bainite phases to the whole microstructure of a steel sheet in order to increase
the strength of the steel sheet. However, since there is a decrease in workability
in the case where the strength of a steel sheet is increased by increasing the proportion
of hard phases, there is a demand for developing a steel sheet having both high strength
and excellent workability. To date, various multi-phase steel sheets such as a DP
steel sheet, which has a dual phase consisting of ferrite and martensite, and a TRIP
steel sheet, which utilizes the transformation-induced plasticity of retained austenite,
have been developed.
[0004] In the case where the proportion of hard phases is increased in a multi-phase steel
sheet, the workability of the steel sheet strongly depends on the workability of the
hard phases. This is because, while the workability of a steel sheet depends mainly
on the deformability of polygonal ferrite in the case where the proportion of hard
phases is small so that the proportion of soft polygonal ferrite is large, which results
in satisfactory workability such as ductility being achieved even if the workability
of the hard phases is unsatisfactory, the workability of a steel sheet depends directly
on the deformability of hard phases instead of the deformability of polygonal ferrite
in the case where the proportion of the hard phases is large.
[0005] Therefore, in the case of a cold-rolled steel sheet, the workability of martensite
has been improved by controlling the amount of polygonal ferrite formed in an annealing
process and a subsequent cooling process, by performing water quenching on the cooled
steel sheet in order to form martensite, by reheating the quenched steel sheet, and
by holding the heated steel sheet at a high temperature in order to temper martensite
so that carbides are formed in martensite, which is a hard phase. However, in the
case of continuous annealing water quenching equipment, with which water quenching
is performed, since the temperature after quenching is naturally nearly equal to the
water temperature, almost all untransformed austenite is transformed into martensite,
which makes it difficult to utilize low-temperature-transformation phases such as
retained austenite and so forth. Therefore, an improvement in the workability of hard
phases is limited to that caused by the effect of tempering martensite, which results
in a limited improvement in the workability of a steel sheet.
[0006] To date, multi-phase steel sheets containing retained austenite have been disclosed.
For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a high tensile strength steel sheet excellent
in terms of bending workability and impact resistance which is manufactured by controlling
the contents of predetermined constituent alloy elements and by forming a steel sheet
microstructure including fine and homogeneous bainite having retained austenite therein.
In addition, for example, Patent Literature 2 discloses a multi-phase steel sheet
excellent in terms of bake hardenability which is manufactured by controlling the
contents of predetermined constituent alloy elements, by forming a steel sheet microstructure
including bainite having retained austenite therein and/or ferrite, and by controlling
the amount of retained austenite in bainite. Moreover, for example, Patent Literature
3 discloses a multi-phase steel sheet excellent in terms of impact resistance which
is manufactured by controlling the contents of predetermined constituent alloy elements,
by forming a steel sheet microstructure including bainite having retained austenite
therein in an amount of 90% or more in terms of area fraction, by controlling the
amount of retained austenite in bainite to be 1% or more and 15% or less, and by controlling
the hardness (HV) of bainite.
Citation List
Patent Literature
[0007]
PTL 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 4-235253
PTL 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-76114
PTL 3: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 11-256273
Summary of Invention
Technical Problem
[0008] However, in the case of the chemical composition according to Patent Literature 1,
although satisfactory bendability is achieved, since it is difficult to stably form
a sufficient amount of retained austenite, which realizes the TRIP effect in a high-strain
range when strain is applied to a steel sheet, there is a problem of a deterioration
in bulging formability due to low ductility before plastic instability occurs. In
addition, in the case of the steel sheet according to Patent Literature 2, although
certain bake hardenability is achieved, since a microstructure including mainly bainite
and/or ferrite with the amount of martensite being controlled to be as small as possible
is formed, there is a problem not only in that it is difficult to achieve a tensile
strength (TS) of more than 1180 MPa, but also in that it is difficult to achieve satisfactory
workability when strength is increased. Moreover, in the case of the steel sheet according
to Patent Literature 3, since an improvement in impact resistance is primarily intended,
and since a microstructure includes mainly bainite having a hardness HV of 250 or
less as a main phase, specifically, in an amount of more than 90%, there is a problem
in that it is very difficult to achieve a tensile strength (TS) of more than 1180
MPa.
[0009] On the other hand, a tensile strength (TS) of 1180 MPa or more, or 1320 MPa or more
in the future is required for a steel sheet used as a material for automobile parts
such as a door impact beam and a bumper reinforcement member which are formed by performing
press forming and which are particularly required to have sufficient strength to inhibit
deformation at the time of an automobile collision. In addition, a tensile strength
(TS) of 980 MPa or more, or 1180 MPa or more in the future is required for kinds of
members, which are structural parts having relatively complex shapes, and structural
members such as a center pillar inner member.
[0010] In view of the situation described above, an object of the present invention is to
provide a high-strength steel sheet having a tensile strength (TS) of 1320 MPa or
more and excellent workability and a method for manufacturing the high-strength steel
sheet.
Solution to Problem
[0011] In order to solve the problems described above, investigations were diligently conducted
regarding the chemical composition and microstructure of a steel sheet. As a result,
it was found that it is possible to obtain a high-strength steel sheet which is excellent
in terms of workability, in particular, highly excellent in terms of the strength-ductility
balance and the strength-stretch flange formability balance and which has a tensile
strength of 1320 MPa or more by increasing the strength of a steel sheet through the
utilization of martensite and a lower bainite microstructure and by stabilizing tempering
of martensite, lower bainite transformation, and retained austenite after having increased
the C content in a steel sheet to 0.20% or more and having allowed some of the austenite
to transform into martensite as a result of performing rapid cooling on a steel sheet
annealed in a temperature range in which a single austenite phase is formed.
[0012] The present invention has been completed on the basis of the knowledge described
above, and subject matter of the present invention is as follows.
- [1] A high-strength steel sheet having a chemical composition containing, by mass%,
C: 0.20% or more and 0.40% or less, Si: 0.5% or more and 2.5% or less, Mn: more than
2.4% and 5.0% or less, P: 0.1% or less, S: 0.01% or less, Al: 0.01% or more and 0.5%
or less, N: 0.010% or less, and the balance being Fe and inevitable impurities, a
steel sheet microstructure including, in terms of area fraction with respect to the
whole steel sheet microstructure, lower bainite in an amount of 40% or more and less
than 85%, martensite including tempered martensite in an amount of 5% or more and
less than 40%, retained austenite in an amount of 10% or more and 30% or less, and
polygonal ferrite in an amount of 10% or less (including 0%), a tensile strength of
1320 MPa or more, (tensile strength × total elongation) of 18000 MPa·% or more, and
(tensile strength × hole expansion ratio) of 40000 MPa·% or more.
- [2] The high-strength steel sheet according to item [1], in which an average crystal
grain diameter of the retained austenite in the steel sheet microstructure is 2.0
µm or less.
- [3] The high-strength steel sheet according to item [1] or [2], in which an average
C content in the retained austenite in the steel sheet microstructure is 0.60 mass%
or more.
- [4] The high-strength steel sheet according to any one of items [1] to [3], in which
the chemical composition further contains, by mass%, one, two, or all selected from
V: 1.0% or less, Mo: 0.5% or less, and Cu: 2.0% or less.
- [5] The high-strength steel sheet according to any one of items [1] to [4], in which
the chemical composition further contains, by mass%, one or both selected from Ti:
0.1% or less and Nb: 0.1% or less.
- [6] The high-strength steel sheet according to any one of items [1] to [5], in which
the chemical composition further contains, by mass%, B: 0.0050% or less.
- [7] A method for manufacturing a high-strength steel sheet, the method including performing
hot rolling and cold rolling on a steel slab having the chemical composition according
to any one of items [1] and [4] to [6], annealing the cold-rolled steel sheet in a
temperature range in which an austenite single phase is formed for a holding time
of 15 seconds or more and 1000 seconds or less, cooling the annealed steel sheet at
an average cooling rate of 3°C/s or more to a first temperature range of (Ms temperature
- 100°C) or higher and lower than the Ms temperature, heating the cooled steel sheet
to a second temperature range of 300°C or higher, (Bs temperature - 50°C) or lower,
and 400°C or lower, and holding the heated steel sheet in the second temperature range
for 15 seconds or more and 1000 seconds or less.
- [8] The method for manufacturing a high-strength steel sheet according to item [7],
in which the hot rolling includes rough rolling in which a rolling reduction of a
first pass of the rough rolling is 10% or more and 15% or less and finish rolling
in which a rolling reduction of a first pass of the finish rolling is 10% or more
and 15% or less.
[0013] Here, in the present invention, the term "high-strength steel sheet" denotes a steel
sheet having a tensile strength (TS) of 1320 MPa or more, and the meaning of the term
includes a cold rolled steel sheet and a cold-rolled steel sheet which has been subjected
to a surface treatment such as a coating treatment and a coating-alloying treatment.
In addition, in the present invention, the term "excellent in terms of workability"
denotes a case where the product of tensile strength (TS) and total elongation (T.EL),
that is, (TS × T.EL), is 18000 MPa·% or more and the product of tensile strength (TS)
and hole expansion ratio (λ), that is, (TS × λ), is 40000 MPa·% or more, or more in
detail, a case where the expressions λ ≥ 32% and T.EL ≥ 16% are satisfied for a tensile
strength (TS) of 1320 MPa or more and less than 1470 MPa, or the expressions λ ≥ 25%
and T.EL ≥ 15% are satisfied for a tensile strength (TS) of 1470 MPa or more. Advantageous
Effects of Invention
[0014] According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain a high-strength steel
sheet excellent in terms of workability. Since the high-strength steel sheet according
to the present invention has a TS of 1320 MPa or more, excellent ductility represented
by (TS × T.EL) of 18000 MPa·% or more, and excellent stretch flange formability represented
by (TS × λ) of 40000 MPa·% or more, the high-strength steel sheet can preferably be
used for, for example, the structural members of an automobile, which has a marked
effect on the industry.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0015] [Fig. 1] Fig. 1(A) is a partial enlarged schematic diagram illustrating upper bainite,
and Fig. 1(B) is a partial enlarged schematic diagram illustrating lower bainite.
Description of Embodiments
[0016] Hereafter, the present invention will be described in detail.
[0017] First, the reasons of limitations on the chemical composition of the high-strength
steel sheet according to the present invention will be described. Hereinafter, "%"
used when describing a chemical composition denotes "mass%", unless otherwise noted.
C: 0.20% or more and 0.40% or less
[0018] C is a chemical element which is indispensable for increasing strength of a steel
sheet and for stably forming a desired amount of retained austenite and which is required
for forming a desired amount of martensite and for retaining austenite at room temperature.
In the case where the C content is less than 0.20%, it is difficult to achieve the
desired strength and workability of a steel sheet. Therefore, the C content is set
to be 0.20% or more, preferably 0.25% or more, or more preferably 0.30% or more. On
the other hand, in the case where the C content is more than 0.40%, since there is
a significant increase in the hardness of a weld zone and a welded heat affected zone
when a steel sheet is processed into a member, there is a deterioration in weldability.
Therefore, the C content is set to be 0.40% or less, or preferably 0.36% or less.
Si: 0.5% or more and 2.5% or less
[0019] Si is a chemical element which is effective for contributing to an increase in the
strength of steel through solid solution hardening and for inhibiting the formation
of carbides. Accordingly, the Si content is set to be 0.5% or more. However, in the
case where the Si content is more than 2.5%, there may be a decrease in surface quality
and phosphatability due to the generation of, for example, red scale. Therefore, the
Si content is set to be 2.5% or less. Thus, the Si content is set to be 0.5% or more
and 2.5% or less.
Mn: more than 2.4% and 5.0% or less
[0020] Since Mn is effective for increasing the strength of steel and for stabilizing austenite,
Mn is a chemical element which is important for the present invention. In the case
where the Mn content is 2.4% or less, since the amount of ferrite formed may be more
than 10% even if a cooling rate after annealing is 3°C/s or more, it is difficult
to achieve a strength of 1320 MPa or more. Therefore, the Mn content is set to be
more than 2.4%, or preferably 3.0% or more. However, in the case where the Mn content
is more than 5.0%, for example, there is a deterioration in casting performance, and
bainite transformation is inhibited. Therefore, it is necessary that the Mn content
be 5.0% or less. Thus, the Mn content is set to be 5.0% or less, or preferably 4.5%
or less.
P: 0.1% or less
[0021] P is a chemical element which is effective for increasing the strength of steel.
However, in the case where the P content is more than 0.1%, there is a deterioration
in impact resistance due to brittle caused by grain-boundary segregation. In addition,
in the case where a galvannealing treatment is performed on a steel sheet, there is
a significant decrease in alloying rate. Therefore, the P content is set to be 0.1%
or less, or preferably 0.05% or less. Here, although it is preferable that the P content
be decreased, there is a significant increase in cost when an attempt is made to control
the P content to be less than 0.005%. Therefore, it is preferable that the lower limit
of the P content be 0.005%.
S: 0.01% or less
[0022] Since S causes a deterioration in impact resistance and cracking along the metal
flow of a weld zone as a result of forming inclusions such as MnS, it is preferable
that the S content be as low as possible. Therefore, the S content is set to be 0.01%
or less, preferably 0.005% or less, or more preferably 0.001% or less. Here, since
there is a significant increase in manufacturing costs when an attempt is made to
control the S content to be less than 0.0005%, it is preferable that the lower limit
of the S content be 0.0005% from the viewpoint of manufacturing costs.
Al: 0.01% or more and 0.5% or less
[0023] A1 is an effective chemical element which is added as a deoxidizing agent in a steel-making
process. It is necessary that the Al content be 0.01% or more in order to realize
such an effect. On the other hand, in the case where the Al content is more than 0.5%,
there is an increased risk of slab cracking when continuous casting is performed.
Therefore, the Al content is set to be 0.01% or more and 0.5% or less.
N: 0.010% or less
[0024] Since N is a chemical element which most deteriorates the aging resistance of steel,
it is preferable that the N content be as low as possible. In the case where the N
content is more than 0.010%, there is a marked deterioration in aging resistance.
Therefore, the N content is set to be 0.010% or less. Here, since there is a significant
increase in manufacturing costs when an attempt is made to control the N content to
be less than 0.001%, it is preferable that the lower limit of the N content be 0.001%
from the viewpoint of manufacturing costs.
[0025] The remainder is iron (Fe) and inevitable impurities.
[0026] Although it is possible for the steel sheet according to the present invention to
achieve the intended properties with the indispensable constituent chemical elements
described above, the chemical elements described below may be added as needed in addition
to the indispensable constituent chemical elements described above.
One, two, or all selected from V: 1.0% or less, Mo: 0.5% or less, and Cu: 2.0% or
less
[0027] In the case where the V content is more than 1.0%, the Mo content is more than 0.5%,
or the Cu content is more than 2.0%, since there is an excessive increase in the amount
of hard martensite formed, it is not possible to achieve the desired workability.
Therefore, in the case where V, Mo, and Cu are added, one, two, or all of V: 1.0%
or less, Mo: 0.5% or less, and Cu: 2.0% or less should be added. Here, V, Mo, and
Cu are chemical elements which have a function of inhibiting the formation of pearlite
when cooling is performed from an annealing temperature. In order to realize such
an effect, it is preferable that one, two, or all of V: 0.005% or more, Mo: 0.005%
or more, and Cu: 0.05% or more be added.
One or both selected from Ti: 0.1% or less and Nb: 0.1% or less
[0028] In the case where the Ti content or the Nb content is more than 0.1%, there is a
decrease in workability and shape fixability. Therefore, in the case where Ti and
Nb are added, the content of each of Ti and Nb is set to be 0.1% or less. Here, Ti
and Nb are effective for the precipitation strengthening of steel, and it is preferable
that one or both of Ti and Nb be added in an amount of 0.01% or more each in order
to realize such an effect.
B: 0.0050% or less
[0029] In the case where the B content is more than 0.0050%, there is a decrease in workability.
Therefore, in the case where B is added, the B content is set to be 0.0050% or less.
Here, B is a chemical element which is effective for inhibiting the formation and
growth of polygonal ferrite from austenite grain boundaries. In order to realize such
an effect, it is preferable that the B content be 0.0003% or more.
[0030] Hereafter, a microstructure and so forth, which are important factors of the high-strength
steel sheet according to the present invention, will be described. Hereinafter, an
area fraction refers to an area fraction with respect to the whole steel sheet microstructure.
Area fraction of lower bainite: 40% or more and less than 85%
[0031] The formation of bainitic ferrite through bainite transformation is necessary in
order to form retained austenite, which increases strain-decomposition capability
by realizing the TRIP effect in a high-strain range when processing is performed,
by increasing the C concentration in untransformed austenite. Transformation from
austenite to bainite occurs in a wide temperature range of about 150°C to 550°C, and
various kinds of bainite are formed in this temperature range. Although such various
kinds of bainite are conventionally defined as bainite in a simple manner in many
cases, it is necessary to clearly define a bainite structure in order to achieve the
intended tensile strength and workability in the present invention. Therefore, in
the present invention, upper bainite and lower bainite are defined as follows. Hereafter,
description will be made with reference to Fig. 1.
[0032] With reference to Fig. 1(A), the term "upper bainite" denotes lath-structured bainitic
ferrite which is formed so that carbides growing in the same direction do not exist
within the grains of the lath-structured bainitic ferrite and carbides exist at grain
boundaries of the lath-structured bainitic ferrite. In addition, with reference to
Fig. 1(B), the term "lower bainite" denotes lath-structured bainitic ferrite which
is formed so that carbides growing in the same direction exist within the grains of
the lath-structured bainitic ferrite. That is, it is possible to distinguish between
upper bainite and lower bainite by the presence or absence of carbides growing in
the same direction within the grains of bainitic ferrite. Such a difference in the
state of carbides being formed in grains of bainitic ferrite has a large effect on
the strength of a steel sheet. Upper bainite, which has no carbide within the grains
of bainitic ferrite, is softer than lower bainite. Therefore, it is necessary that
the area fraction of lower bainite be 40% or more in order to achieve the intended
tensile strength in the present invention. On the other hand, in the case where the
area fraction of lower bainite is 85% or more, it is not possible to form sufficient
amount of retained austenite to achieve the intended workability in the present invention.
Therefore, the area fraction of lower bainite is set to be less than 85%. Thus, the
area fraction of lower bainite is set to be 40% or more and less than 85%. It is preferable
that the area fraction be 50% or more. It is preferable that the area fraction be
less than 80%.
Area fraction of martensite including tempered martensite: 5% or more and less than
40%
[0033] Martensite is a hard phase and increases the strength of a steel sheet. In addition,
by forming martensite before bainite transformation occurs, bainite transformation
is promoted. Therefore, in the case where the area fraction of martensite including
tempered martensite is less than 5%, since it is not possible to sufficiently promote
bainite transformation, it is not possible to achieve the above-described area fraction
of lower bainite. On the other hand, in the case where the area fraction of martensite
including tempered martensite is 40% or more, since it is not possible to stably form
a sufficient amount of retained austenite due to a decrease in the amount of bainite
structure, there is a problem of a decrease in workability such as ductility. Therefore,
the area fraction of martensite including tempered martensite is set to be 5% or more
and less than 40%. It is preferable that the area fraction be 10% or more. It is preferable
that the area fraction be 30% or less.
[0034] Here, it is necessary to clearly distinguish martensite from lower bainite described
above, and it is possible to identify martensite by performing microstructure observation.
Specifically, while a carbide does not exist within a phase in the case of martensite
in the quenched state which has not been tempered, carbides growing in random directions
exist within a phase in the case of tempered martensite. In the case of lower bainite,
carbides growing in the same direction exist within grains of lath-structured bainitic
ferrite as described above. Here, it is possible to determine the area fractions of
the phases by using the method described in EXAMPLES below.
Proportion of tempered martensite to all martensite: 80% or more (preferable condition)
[0035] In the case where the proportion of tempered martensite with respect to the area
of all the martensite is less than 80%, although it is possible to achieve a tensile
strength of 1320 MPa or more, there may be a case where it is not possible to achieve
sufficient ductility. This is because, in the case where there is an increase in the
amount of martensite in the quenched state, which contains a large amount of C and
thus is poor in terms of deformability and toughness due to very high hardness, brittle
fracturing occurs when strain is applied, which hinders excellent ductility or stretch
flange formability from being achieved. In the case where such martensite in the quenched
state is tempered, since there is a significant improvement in the deformability of
martensite although there is a slight decrease in strength, brittle fracturing does
not occur when strain is applied. Therefore, according to the microstructure configuration
of the present invention, it is possible to achieve (TS × T.EL) of 18000 MPa·% or
more and (TS × λ) of 40000 MPa·% or more. In addition, in the case where the proportion
of tempered martensite with respect to the area of all the martensite is 80% or more,
it is easy to achieve a tensile strength of 1000 MPa or more. Therefore, it is preferable
that the proportion of tempered martensite with respect to the area of all the martensite
in a steel sheet be 80% or more, or more preferably 90% or more. Here, since tempered
martensite is identified as martensite within which fine carbides are precipitated
by performing, for example, observation through the use of a scanning electron microscope
(SEM), it is possible to clearly distinguish such a phase from martensite in the quenched
state within which such carbides are not precipitated. It is possible to determine
the area fractions of the phases by using the method described in EXAMPLES below.
Area fraction of retained austenite: 10% or more and 30% or less
[0036] Retained austenite transforms into martensite through the TRIP effect when processing
is performed, and thus an increase in strength is promoted through the use of hard
martensite containing a large amount of C and there is an improvement in ductility
due to an increase in strain dispersibility.
[0037] In the case of the steel sheet according to the present invention, after partial
martensite transformation is allowed to occur, retained austenite which particularly
has a high carbon concentration is formed through the utilization of, for example,
lower bainite transformation in which the formation of carbides is inhibited. As a
result, it is possible to form retained austenite with which it is possible to realize
the TRIP effect even in a high-strain range when processing is performed.
[0038] In the case where the area fraction of retained austenite is less than 10%, it is
not possible to realize sufficient TRIP effect. On the other hand, in the case where
the area fraction is more than 30%, since there is an excessive increase in the amount
of hard martensite, which is formed after the TRIP effect realized, there is a problem
of, for example, a deterioration in toughness and stretch flange formability. Therefore,
the area fraction of retained austenite is set to be 10% or more and 30% or less.
It is preferable that the area fraction be 14% or more, or more preferably 18% or
more. It is preferable that the area fraction be 25% or less, or more preferably 22%
or less.
[0039] By utilizing retained austenite, lower bainite, and martensite described above in
combination, it is possible to achieve good workability even in a high-strength range
represented by a tensile strength (TS) of 1320 MPa or more. The term "good workability"
specifically denotes a case where (TS × T.EL) is 18000 MPa·% or more and (TS × λ)
is 40000 MPa·% or more, that is, a case where it is possible to obtain a steel sheet
highly excellent in terms of the strength-workability balance.
[0040] Here, since retained austenite is distributed in the state of being surrounded by
martensite and lower bainite, it is difficult to accurately determine the amount (area
fraction) of retained austenite by performing microstructure observation. However,
it is possible to determine the area fraction by using a method for determining the
amount of retained austenite which has been conventionally used, that is, a method
for determining intensity through the use of X-ray diffractometry (XRD), or specifically,
a method for determining the ratio of the X-ray diffraction intensity of austenite
to that of ferrite. Here, it is possible to determine the area fraction of retained
austenite by using the method described in EXAMPLES below. In the present invention,
it is clarified that, in the case where the area fraction of retained austenite is
10% or more, it is possible to realize sufficient TRIP effect and therefore a TS of
1320 MPa or more, (TS × T.EL) of 18000 MPa·% or more, and (TS × λ) of 40000 MPa·%
or more are achieved.
Area fraction of polygonal ferrite: 10% or less (including 0%)
[0041] In the case where the area fraction of polygonal ferrite is more than 10%, it is
difficult to achieve a tensile strength of 1320 MPa or more. At the same time, since
strain is concentrated in soft polygonal ferrite, which is mixed in hard phases when
processing is performed, cracking tends to occur when processing is performed, which
hinders the desired workability from being achieved. Here, in the case where the area
fraction of polygonal ferrite is 10% or less, since a small amount of polygonal ferrite
is dispersed in hard phases in the state of being isolated even if polygonal ferrite
exists, it is possible to inhibit the concentration of strain, which makes it possible
to avoid a deterioration in workability. In addition, in the case where the area fraction
of polygonal ferrite is more than 10%, since there is a decrease in yield strength
to 1000 MPa or less, there is insufficient strength when a steel sheet is used for
automobile parts. Therefore, the area fraction of polygonal ferrite is set to be 10%
or less, preferably 5% or less, or more preferably 3% or less. The area ratio may
be 0%. Here, it is possible to determine the area fraction of polygonal ferrite by
using the method described in EXAMPLES below.
Average C content in retained austenite: 0.60 mass% or more (preferable condition)
[0042] In order to achieve excellent workability by utilizing the TRIP effect, the carbon
content in retained austenite is important in the case of a high-strength steel sheet
having a tensile strength of 1320 MPa or more. In the case of the steel sheet according
to the present invention, when the average C content in retained austenite determined
from the amount of the diffraction peak shift in X-ray diffractometry (XRD), which
is a conventional method for determining the average C content in retained austenite
(the average of the C content in retained austenite), is 0.60 mass% or more, it is
possible to achieve highly excellent workability. When the average C content in retained
austenite is less than 0.60 mass%, since martensite transformation occurs in a low-strain
range when processing is performed, there may be a case where it is not possible to
sufficiently realize the TRIP effect in a high-strain range, which improves workability.
Therefore, it is preferable that the average C content in retained austenite be 0.60
mass% or more, or more preferably 0.70 mass% or more. On the other hand, when the
average C content in retained austenite is more than 2.00 mass%, since retained austenite
becomes excessively stable, martensite transformation does not occur when processing
is performed, which results in a risk of a decrease in ductility due to the TRIP effect
not being realized. Therefore, it is preferable that the average C content in retained
austenite be 2.00 mass% or less.
Average crystal grain diameter of retained austenite: 2.0 µm or less (preferable condition)
[0043] In the case where the average crystal grain diameter of retained austenite is large,
since a portion of such retained austenite having a large crystal grain diameter in
which transformation occurs becomes a starting point at which cracking occurs when
processing is performed, there may be a case of a deterioration in stretch flange
formability. Therefore, it is preferable that the average crystal grain diameter of
retained austenite be 2.0 µm or less, or more preferably 1.8 µm or less. Here, it
is possible to determine the average crystal grain diameter of retained austenite
by using the method described in EXAMPLES below.
[0044] Hereafter, the method for manufacturing the high-strength steel sheet according to
the present invention will be described.
[0045] It is possible to manufacture the high-strength steel sheet according to the present
invention by performing hot rolling and cold rolling on a steel slab having the chemical
composition described above, annealing the cold-rolled steel sheet in a temperature
range in which an austenite single phase is formed for a holding time of 15 seconds
or more and 1000 seconds or less, cooling the annealed steel sheet at an average cooling
rate of 3°C/s or more to a first temperature range of (Ms temperature - 100°C) or
higher and lower than the Ms temperature, heating the cooled steel sheet to a second
temperature range of 300°C or higher, (Bs temperature - 50°C) or lower, and 400°C
or lower, and holding the heated steel sheet in the second temperature range for 15
seconds or more and 1000 seconds or less.
[0046] Hereafter, description will be made in detail.
[0047] In the present invention, after a steel slab prepared to have a preferable chemical
composition is manufactured, hot rolling and subsequent cold rolling are performed
on the steel slab to obtain a cold-rolled steel sheet.
[0048] In the present invention, although there is no particular limitation on such treatments
and commonly used methods may be used, preferable manufacturing conditions are as
follows. After a steel slab is heated to a temperature range of 1000°C or higher and
1300°C or lower, rough rolling in which the rolling reduction of the first pass of
the rough rolling is 10% or more and 15% or less is performed, finish rolling in which
the rolling reduction of the first pass of the finish rolling is 10% or more and 15%
or less and in which the finishing delivery temperature is 870°C or higher and 950°C
or lower is performed, and the obtained hot-rolled steel sheet is coiled at a temperature
of 350°C or higher and 720°C or lower after the hot rolling has been performed. Subsequently,
after the hot-rolled steel sheet is pickled, cold rolling is performed with rolling
reduction of 40% or more and 90% or less, a cold-rolled steel sheet having a thickness
of 0.5 mm or more and 5.0 mm or less is obtained.
[0049] In the hot rolling, by controlling the rolling reduction of the first pass of the
rough rolling to be 10% or more and 15% or less, and by controlling the rolling reduction
of the first pass of the finish rolling to be 10% or more and 15% or less, it is possible
to decrease the degree of the surface segregation of Mn. Here, in the case where the
rolling reduction of the first pass of the rough rolling is less than 10%, since there
is no decrease in the degree of Mn segregation, there is a deterioration in the formability
of a steel sheet. Although it is possible to realize a certain level of effect of
decreasing the degree of Mn segregation in the case where the rolling reduction is
10% or more, there is an increase in rolling load in the case where the rolling reduction
is more than 15%. Therefore, the upper limit of the rolling reduction is set to be
15% or less. It is preferable that the rolling reduction of the first pass of the
rough rolling be 12% or more and 15% or less. In addition, in the case where the rolling
reduction of the first pass of the finish rolling is less than 10%, since there is
no decrease in the degree of Mn segregation, there is a deterioration in the formability
of a steel sheet. Although it is possible to realize a certain level of effect of
decreasing the degree of Mn segregation in the case where the rolling reduction is
10% or more, there is an increase in rolling load in the case where the rolling reduction
is more than 15%. Therefore, the upper limit of the rolling reduction is set to be
15% or less. It is preferable that the rolling reduction of the first pass of the
finish rolling be 12% or more and 15% or less.
[0050] Here, although the present invention is based on the assumption that a steel sheet
is manufactured through ordinary process including steel-making, casting, hot rolling,
pickling, and cold rolling, all or part of a hot rolling process may be omitted by
using, for example, a thin-slab casting method or a strip casting method.
[0051] The obtained cold-rolled steel sheet is subjected to the following heat treatment
(annealing).
[0052] Annealing is performed in which the cold-rolled steel sheet is held in a temperature
range in which an austenite single phase is formed for 15 seconds or more and 1000
seconds or less.
[0053] The steel sheet according to the present invention has a microstructure including
mainly low-temperature-transformation phases such as martensite and lower bainite,
which are formed as a result of the transformation of untransformed austenite, and
it is preferable that the amount of polygonal ferrite included be as small as possible.
Therefore, it is necessary to perform annealing in a temperature range in which an
austenite single phase is formed. There is no particular limitation on the annealing
temperature as long as the temperature is within a range in which an austenite single
phase is formed. However, in the case where the annealing temperature is higher than
1000°C, since there is a significant growth of austenite grains, there is an increase
in the grain diameter of phases formed when subsequent cooling is performed, which
results in a deterioration in, for example, toughness. Therefore, it is necessary
that the annealing temperature be equal to or higher than the Ac3 temperature (°C),
that is, austenite transformation completion temperature, and it is preferable that
the annealing temperature be 1000°C or lower.
[0054] Here, it is possible to calculate the Ac3 temperature by using the equation below.
Here, under the assumption that symbol X is used instead of the atomic symbol of some
constituent chemical element of a steel sheet, symbol [X%] denotes the content (mass%)
of the chemical element represented by symbol X, and symbol [X%] is assigned a value
of 0 in the case of a chemical element which is not contained.

[0055] In addition, in the case where the annealing time is less than 15 seconds, there
may be a case where reverse transformation into austenite does not sufficiently progress
or a case where carbides in a steel sheet are not sufficiently dissolved. On the other
hand, in the case where the annealing time is more than 1000 seconds, there is an
increase in cost due to a large energy consumption. Therefore, the annealing time
is set to be 15 seconds or more and 1000 seconds or less. It is preferable that the
annealing time be 60 seconds or more. It is preferable that the annealing time be
500 seconds or less.
[0056] The annealed cold-rolled steel sheet is cooled at an average cooling rate of 3°C/s
or more to a first temperature range of (Ms temperature - 100°C) or higher and lower
than the Ms temperature.
[0057] This cooling is intended to allow part of austenite to transform into martensite
by cooling the steel sheet to a temperature lower than the Ms temperature, that is,
martensite transformation start temperature. In the case where the lower limit of
the first temperature range is lower than (Ms temperature - 100°C), since there is
an excessive amount of untransformed austenite transforming into martensite, it is
not possible to simultaneously achieve excellent strength and workability. On the
other hand, in the case where the upper limit of the first temperature range is equal
to or higher than the Ms temperature, it is not possible to form an appropriate amount
of martensite. Therefore, the first temperature range is set to be (Ms temperature
- 100°C) or higher and lower than the Ms temperature. It is preferable that the temperature
range be (Ms temperature - 80°C) or higher, or more preferably (Ms temperature - 50°C)
or higher.
[0058] In addition, in the case where the average cooling rate is less than 3°C/s, since
excessive formation and growth of polygonal ferrite and the precipitation of pearlite,
upper bainite, and so forth occur, it is not possible to form the desired steel sheet
microstructure. Therefore, the average cooling rate from the annealing temperature
to the first temperature range is set to be 3°C/s or more, preferably 5°C/s or more,
or more preferably 8°C/s or more. Here, although there is no particular limitation
on the upper limit of the average cooling rate as long as there is no variation in
the cooling stop temperature, it is preferable that the upper limit be 100°C/s or
less.
[0059] Here, it is preferable that the Ms temperature described above be determined by performing
actual measurement such as measurement in which thermal expansion coefficient or electric
resistance is determined through the use of, for example, a formaster test when cooling
is performed. However, the Ms temperature may be derived by using, for example, the
approximate equation below. Ms temperature is an approximate value which is derived
on an empirical basis. Here, among the values of the Ms temperature which are derived
by performing actual measurements through the use of, for example, a formaster test
or by using the approximate equation, the lowest one is used.

[0060] Here, under the assumption that symbol X is used instead of the atomic symbol of
some constituent chemical element of a steel sheet, symbol [X%] denotes the content
(mass%) of the chemical element represented by symbol X, and symbol [X%] is assigned
a value of 0 in the case of a chemical element which is not contained.
[0061] The steel sheet which has been cooled to the first temperature range is heated to
a second temperature range of 300°C or higher, (Bs temperature - 50°C) or lower, and
400°C or lower and held in the second temperature range for 15 seconds or more and
1000 seconds or less.
[0062] In the second temperature range, the stabilization of austenite is promoted, for
example, by tempering martensite, which has been formed by performing cooling from
the annealing temperature to the first temperature range, and by allowing untransformed
austenite to transform into lower bainite so that solid solution C is concentrated
in austenite. Since the steel according to the present invention contains Mn in a
large amount of more than 2.4% and 5.0% or less, there is a decrease in the appropriate
temperature range for lower bainite transformation. Therefore, it is necessary that
the second temperature range be 300°C or higher, (Bs temperature - 50°C) or lower,
and 400°C or lower. In the case where the upper limit of the second temperature range
is higher than the lower of (Bs temperature - 50°C) or lower and 400°C or lower, upper
bainite is formed instead of lower bainite, or bainite transformation is inhibited.
On the other hand, in the case where the lower limit of the second temperature range
is lower than 300°C, since there is a significant decrease in the diffusion rate of
solid solution C, there is a decrease in the amount of solid solution C concentrated
in austenite due to lower bainite not being formed, which hinders the desired C concentration
from being achieved in retained austenite. Therefore, the second temperature range
is set to be 300°C or higher, (Bs temperature - 50°C) or lower, and 400°C or lower.
It is preferable the second temperature range be 320°C or higher. It is preferable
that the second temperature range be (Bs temperature - 50°C) or lower, and 380°C or
lower. Here, the first temperature range is lower than the second temperature range.
[0063] In addition, in the case where the holding time in the second temperature range is
less than 15 seconds, since martensite is not sufficiently tempered and lower bainite
transformation does not sufficiently occur, it is not possible to form the desired
steel sheet microstructure. As a result, there may be a case where it is not possible
to achieve sufficient workability of a steel sheet obtained. Therefore, it is necessary
that the lower limit of the holding time in the second temperature range be 15 seconds.
On the other hand, it is sufficient that the upper limit of the holding time in the
second temperature range be 1000 seconds because of the effect of promoting bainite
transformation through the use of martensite which is formed in the first temperature
range. Usually, in the case where the amount of alloy chemical elements such as C
and Mn is large, bainite transformation is delayed. However, since martensite and
untransformed austenite coexist in the present invention, there is a significant increase
in bainite transformation rate. In the present invention, such a function is utilized
to realize the effect of promoting bainite transformation. Here, in the case where
the holding time in the second temperature range is more than 1000 seconds, since
carbides are precipitated from untransformed austenite in the final microstructure
of a steel sheet, it is not possible to form stable retained austenite in which C
is concentrated. As a result, there may be a case where it is not possible to achieve
the desired strength and/or ductility. Therefore, the holding time in the second temperature
range is set to be 15 seconds or more and 1000 seconds or less. It is preferable that
the holding time be 100 seconds or more. It is preferable that the holding time be
700 seconds or less.
[0064] Here, the term "the Bs temperature" described above denotes a bainite transformation
start temperature. Although it is preferable that the Bs temperature be determined
by performing actual measurement such as measurement in which thermal expansion coefficient
or electric resistance is determined through the use of, for example, a formaster
test when cooling is performed, the Bs temperature may be derived by using, for example,
the approximate equation below. Bs temperature is an approximate value which is derived
on an empirical basis.

[0065] Here, under the assumption that symbol X is used instead of the atomic symbol of
some constituent chemical element of a steel sheet, symbol [X%] denotes the content
(mass%) of the chemical element represented by symbol X, and symbol [X%] is assigned
a value of 0 in the case of a chemical element which is not contained.
[0066] Here, in the series of heat treatments in the present invention, it is not necessary
that the holding temperatures be constant as long as the temperatures are within the
specified ranges described above, and there is no decrease in the effects of the present
invention even in the case where the temperatures vary within the specified ranges.
The same goes for the cooling rates. In addition, a steel sheet may be subjected to
the heat treatments by using any equipment as long as the thermal history conditions
are satisfied. Moreover, performing skin pass rolling on the surface of a steel sheet
for correcting its shape after the heat treatments is within the scope of the present
invention. Furthermore, performing surface treatment such as a coating treatment and
a coating-alloying treatment on a cold-rolled steel sheet is within the scope of the
present invention.
EXAMPLES
[0067] By heating steel slabs which had been manufactured from molten steels having the
chemical compositions given in Table 1 to a temperature of 1250°C, by performing rough
rolling with the rolling ratios (rolling reductions) of the first pass of the rough
rolling given in Table 2, by performing finish rolling with the rolling ratios (rolling
reductions) of the first pass of the finish rolling given in Table 2 and with a finishing
delivery temperature of 870°C, by coiling the hot-rolled steel sheet at a temperature
of 550°C, by pickling the hot-rolled steel sheet, and by performing cold rolling with
a rolling ratio (rolling reduction) of 60%, cold-rolled steel sheets having a thickness
of 1.2 mm were obtained. The obtained cold-rolled steel sheets were subjected to a
heat treatment under the conditions given in Table 2. Here, the term "cooling stop
temperature T1" in Table 2 denotes a temperature at which the cooling of the steel
sheets was stopped in the first temperature range. After the heat treatment has been
performed, the obtained steel sheets were subjected to skin pass rolling with a rolling
ratio (elongation ratio) of 0.3%.
[0068] The various properties of the steel sheets obtained as described above were evaluated
by using the method described below.
Area fraction of phase
[0069] By cutting and polishing the obtained steel sheet to expose the central portion in
the thickness direction in a cross section parallel to the rolling direction, by etching
the exposed portion through the use of nital, by observing 10 fields of view in a
plane having a normal line parallel to the width direction through the use of scanning
electron microscope (SEM) at a magnification of 3000 times, the area fraction of each
of various phases was determined, and the microstructure configuration of each of
various crystal grains was identified. By performing image analysis in order to distinguish
lower bainite, polygonal ferrite, martensite, and so forth, the area fraction of each
of the phases was defined as the proportion of the area of the phase to the area of
the observed field of view.
Amount of retained austenite
[0070] The amount of retained austenite was determined by grinding and polishing the steel
sheet to a position located at 1/4 of the thickness in the thickness direction and
by determining the diffraction intensity in X-ray diffractometry. By using the Co-Kα
ray as an incidence X-ray, the amount of retained austenite was calculated from the
ratio of the diffraction intensity from the (200)-plane, (220)-plane, and (311)-plane
of austenite to the diffraction intensity from the (200)-plane, (211)-plane, and (220)-plane
of ferrite. Here, the amount of retained austenite obtained as described above is
given in Table 3 as the area fraction of retained austenite.
Average C content in retained austenite
[0071] The average C content in retained austenite was obtained by deriving the lattice
constant from the intensity peaks of (200)-plane, (220)-plane, and (311)-plane of
austenite in the determination of X-ray diffraction intensity and by calculating the
average C content (mass%) in retained austenite through the use of the following equation.

[0072] Here, a0: lattice constant (nm), [X%]: content (mass%) of the chemical element represented
by symbol X, and symbol [X%] is assigned a value of 0 in the case of a chemical element
which is not contained, under the assumption that symbol X is used instead of the
atomic symbol of some constituent chemical element of a steel sheet. Here, the contents
(mass%) of chemical elements other than C were defined as those in the whole steel
sheet.
Average crystal grain diameter of retained austenite
[0073] The average crystal grain diameter of retained austenite was obtained by observing
10 grains of retained austenite through the use of a transmission electron microscope
(TEM), by obtaining the area of each of the 10 grains from the observed microstructure
image through the use of Image-Pro produced by Media Cybernetics, Inc., by calculating
the circle-equivalent diameters of the 10 grains, by calculating the average circle-equivalent
diameter of the 10 grains, and by defining the average value as the average crystal
grain diameter of the retained austenite.
Mechanical properties
[0074] A tensile test was performed in accordance with JIS Z 2241 on a JIS No. 5 test piece
(JIS Z 2201) which was taken from the steel sheet so that the longitudinal direction
thereof was the width direction of the steel sheet. By determining TS (tensile strength)
and T.EL (total elongation), and by calculating the product of the tensile strength
and the total elongation (TS × T.EL), the strength-workability (ductility) balance
was evaluated. Here, in the present invention, a case where the expression TS ≥ 1320
(MPa) was satisfied was judged as good, and a case where the expression (TS × T.EL)
≥ 18000 (MPa·%) was satisfied was judged as good.
[0075] A test in accordance with The Japan Iron and Steel Federation Standard (JFS T 1001)
was performed on a test piece of 100 mm × 100 mm. By punching a hole having an initial
diameter d0 of 10 mm
φ in the test piece, by expanding the hole with a conical punch having a point angle
of 60° being moved upward, by stopping the punch when a crack penetrated through the
thickness, by determining the punched hole diameter d after the crack had penetrated
through the thickness, and by using the equation below, a hole expansion ratio was
calculated. By performing the test three times for the steel sheet having the same
sample number and by calculating an average hole expansion ratio (λ (%)), stretch
flange formability was evaluated.

[0076] By calculating the product of the tensile strength and the hole expansion ratio (TS
× λ), the strength-workability (stretch flange formability) balance was evaluated.
Here, in the present invention, a case where the expression TS × λ ≥ 40000 (MPa·%)
was satisfied was judged as good. The results obtained as described above are given
in Table 3.
[Table 1]
|
(mass%) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Steel Grade |
C |
Si |
Mn |
P |
S |
Al |
N |
V |
Mo |
Cu |
Ti |
Nb |
B |
A |
0.21 |
1.4 |
3.5 |
0.011 |
0.002 |
0.03 |
0.0024 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
0.0012 |
B |
0.24 |
1.5 |
2.7 |
0.013 |
0.001 |
0.03 |
0.0023 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
0.02 |
- |
C |
0.33 |
1.5 |
3.8 |
0.014 |
0.002 |
0.04 |
0.0022 |
0.20 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
D |
0.30 |
2.0 |
4.0 |
0.010 |
0.002 |
0.05 |
0.0024 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
E |
0.15 |
1.6 |
3.4 |
0.012 |
0.002 |
0.03 |
0.0028 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
F |
0.24 |
1.0 |
1.5 |
0.011 |
0.001 |
0.04 |
0.0032 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
G |
0.27 |
1.2 |
4.2 |
0.017 |
0.002 |
0.05 |
0.0031 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
0.01 |
- |
H |
0.33 |
2.3 |
2.8 |
0.015 |
0.002 |
0.05 |
0.0025 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
I |
0.35 |
1.6 |
4.0 |
0.008 |
0.002 |
0.03 |
0.0025 |
- |
0.01 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
J |
0.38 |
1.8 |
3.8 |
0.014 |
0.001 |
0.04 |
0.0031 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
0.0008 |
K |
0.23 |
1.7 |
6.1 |
0.011 |
0.001 |
0.03 |
0.0030 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
L |
0.37 |
2.2 |
2.8 |
0.015 |
0.001 |
0.04 |
0.0034 |
- |
- |
0.2 |
- |
- |
- |
M |
0.33 |
1.7 |
3.0 |
0.014 |
0.001 |
0.04 |
0.0035 |
- |
- |
- |
0.03 |
- |
0.0010 |
N |
0.30 |
1.5 |
2.2 |
0.012 |
0.001 |
0.04 |
0.0033 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
[Table 2]
Sample No. |
Steel Grade |
Hot Rolling |
Heat Treatment |
Note |
Rolling Reduction of First Pass of Rough Rolling (%) |
Rolling Reduction of First Pass of Finish Rolling (%) |
Annealing Temperature (°C) |
Annealing Time (sec) |
Ac3 Temperature (°C) |
Average Cooling Rate to First Temperature Range (°C/s) |
Cooling Stop Temperature T1 (°C) |
Ms Temperature (°C) |
Holding Temperature in Second Temperature Range (°C) |
Holding Time in Second Temperature Range (sec) |
Bs Temperature (°C) |
1 |
A |
12 |
12 |
880 |
200 |
794 |
8 |
290 |
329 |
380 |
400 |
458 |
Example |
2 |
A |
12 |
12 |
880 |
300 |
794 |
11 |
310 |
329 |
380 |
600 |
458 |
Example |
3 |
A |
12 |
12 |
870 |
300 |
794 |
10 |
120 |
329 |
370 |
600 |
458 |
Comparative Example |
4 |
B |
12 |
12 |
870 |
250 |
818 |
6 |
290 |
338 |
390 |
500 |
522 |
Example |
5 |
B |
12 |
12 |
780 |
400 |
818 |
8 |
240 |
338 |
400 |
500 |
522 |
Comparative Example |
6 |
C |
12 |
12 |
880 |
150 |
793 |
7 |
230 |
265 |
330 |
600 |
399 |
Example |
7 |
C |
12 |
5 |
820 |
300 |
793 |
13 |
220 |
265 |
340 |
300 |
399 |
Example |
8 |
D |
12 |
12 |
850 |
250 |
795 |
5 |
220 |
265 |
330 |
800 |
389 |
Example |
9 |
D |
12 |
12 |
870 |
350 |
795 |
7 |
300 |
265 |
320 |
500 |
|
comparative Example |
10 |
D |
5 |
12 |
870 |
300 |
795 |
6 |
230 |
265 |
280 |
600 |
389 |
Comparative Example |
11 |
E |
12 |
12 |
860 |
200 |
821 |
10 |
320 |
358 |
380 |
600 |
484 |
Comparative Example |
12 |
F |
12 |
12 |
850 |
300 |
834 |
15 |
350 |
382 |
400 |
500 |
630 |
Comparative Example |
13 |
G |
12 |
12 |
860 |
400 |
764 |
13 |
200 |
282 |
320 |
500 |
379 |
Example |
14 |
H |
12 |
12 |
880 |
350 |
843 |
5 |
240 |
285 |
370 |
300 |
489 |
Example |
15 |
H |
12 |
12 |
870 |
300 |
843 |
1 |
250 |
285 |
390 |
400 |
489 |
Comparative Example |
16 |
H |
12 |
12 |
880 |
400 |
843 |
6 |
250 |
285 |
460 |
500 |
489 |
Comparative Example |
17 |
I |
12 |
12 |
870 |
250 |
759 |
8 |
210 |
249 |
310 |
600 |
375 |
Example |
18 |
J |
12 |
12 |
860 |
400 |
777 |
11 |
210 |
240 |
320 |
700 |
385 |
Example |
19 |
K |
12 |
12 |
840 |
350 |
725 |
10 |
200 |
235 |
350 |
600 |
219 |
Comparative Example |
20 |
L |
12 |
12 |
870 |
250 |
823 |
5 |
200 |
270 |
380 |
600 |
478 |
Example |
21 |
M |
12 |
12 |
860 |
300 |
817 |
7 |
250 |
287 |
370 |
500 |
471 |
Example |
22 |
N |
12 |
12 |
850 |
300 |
824 |
3 |
250 |
327 |
400 |
500 |
551 |
Comparative Example |
Note 1: Ac3 temperature (°C) = 910 - 203 × [C%]1/2 + 44.7 × [Si%] - 30 × [Mn%] + 700 × [P%] + 400 × [Al%] - 20 × [Cu%] + 31.5 × [Mo%]
+ 104 × [V%] + 400 × [Ti%]. where, under the assumption that symbol X is used instead
of the atomic symbol of some constituent chemical element of a steel sheet, symbol
[X%] denotes the content (mass%) of the chemical element represented by symbol X,
and symbol [X%] is assigned a value of 0 in the case of a chemical element which is
not contained.
Note 2: Ms temperature (°C) = 565 - 31 × [Mn%] - 13 × [Si%] - 12 × [Mo%] - 600 × (1
- exp(-0.96 × [C%])), where, under the assumption that symbol X is used instead of
the atomic symbol of some constituent chemical element of a steel sheet, symbol [X%]
denotes the content (mass%) of the chemical element represented by symbol X, and symbol
[X%] is assigned a value of 0 in the case of a chemical element which is not contained.
Note 3: Bs temperature (°C) = 830 - 270 × [C%) - 90 × [Mn%] - 83 × [Mo%], where, under
the assumption that symbol X is used instead of the atomic symbol of some constituent
chemical element of a steel sheet, symbol [X%] denotes the content (mass%) of the
chemical element represented by symbol X, and symbol [X%] is assigned a value of 0
in the case of a chemical element which is not contained. |
[Table 3]
Sample No. |
Steel Grade |
α(%) |
UB(%) |
LB(%) |
FM(%) |
TM(%) |
γ(%) |
(TM/FM+TM)× 100 (%) |
Average Crystal Grain Diameter of Retained γ (µm) |
Average C Content in Retained γ (mass%) |
YS(MPa) |
TS(MPa) |
T.EI(%) |
λ(%) |
TS×T.EI (MPa·%) |
TS×λ (Mpa·%) |
Note |
1 |
A |
0 |
0 |
64 |
2 |
22 |
12 |
92 |
1.8 |
0.70 |
1125 |
1358 |
17 |
36 |
23086 |
48888 |
Example |
2 |
A |
0 |
0 |
76 |
0 |
10 |
14 |
100 |
1.7 |
0.85 |
1132 |
1397 |
17 |
44 |
23749 |
61468 |
Example |
3 |
A |
0 |
0 |
0 |
6 |
88 |
6 |
94 |
1.8 |
0.86 |
1280 |
1464 |
11 |
35 |
16104 |
51240 |
Comparative Example |
4 |
B |
0 |
0 |
55 |
2 |
27 |
16 |
93 |
1.8 |
0.94 |
1244 |
1471 |
18 |
37 |
26478 |
54427 |
Example |
5 |
B |
26 |
0 |
9 |
2 |
42 |
21 |
95 |
1.6 |
0.75 |
845 |
1187 |
22 |
16 |
26114 |
18992 |
Comparative Example |
6 |
C |
0 |
0 |
63 |
3 |
16 |
18 |
84 |
1.8 |
0.87 |
1262 |
1523 |
17 |
30 |
25891 |
45690 |
Example |
7 |
C |
0 |
0 |
50 |
2 |
26 |
22 |
93 |
2.5 |
1.12 |
1314 |
1568 |
20 |
33 |
31360 |
51744 |
Example |
8 |
D |
0 |
0 |
55 |
1 |
27 |
17 |
96 |
1.8 |
0.98 |
1315 |
1523 |
16 |
35 |
24368 |
53305 |
Example |
9 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
37 |
55 |
0 |
8 |
0 |
1.8 |
1.23 |
1224 |
1686 |
11 |
3 |
18546 |
5058 |
Comparative Example |
10 |
D |
0 |
0 |
20 |
41 |
28 |
11 |
41 |
2.8 |
0.40 |
1245 |
1624 |
14 |
8 |
22736 |
12992 |
Comparative Example |
11 |
E |
0 |
0 |
66 |
2 |
25 |
7 |
93 |
1.8 |
0.38 |
954 |
1154 |
12 |
43 |
13848 |
49622 |
Comparative Example |
12 |
F |
12 |
0 |
62 |
1 |
19 |
6 |
95 |
1.7 |
0.86 |
926 |
1290 |
13 |
25 |
16770 |
32250 |
Comparative Example |
13 |
G |
0 |
0 |
54 |
2 |
27 |
17 |
93 |
1.8 |
0.94 |
1248 |
1426 |
17 |
32 |
24242 |
45632 |
Example |
14 |
H |
0 |
0 |
47 |
2 |
28 |
23 |
93 |
1.8 |
1.10 |
1324 |
1621 |
20 |
29 |
32420 |
47009 |
Example |
15 |
H |
0 |
35 |
21 |
2 |
16 |
26 |
89 |
1.7 |
1.03 |
998 |
1270 |
23 |
32 |
29210 |
40640 |
Comparative Example |
16 |
H |
0 |
40 |
12 |
3 |
17 |
28 |
85 |
1.8 |
0.88 |
935 |
1234 |
25 |
29 |
30850 |
35786 |
Comparative Example |
17 |
I |
0 |
0 |
55 |
2 |
21 |
22 |
91 |
1.7 |
0.78 |
1355 |
1664 |
21 |
27 |
34944 |
44928 |
Example |
18 |
J |
0 |
0 |
61 |
2 |
10 |
27 |
83 |
1.8 |
1.43 |
1449 |
1765 |
22 |
25 |
38830 |
44125 |
Example |
19 |
K |
0 |
0 |
12 |
65 |
17 |
6 |
21 |
1.7 |
0.88 |
1198 |
1644 |
10 |
5 |
16440 |
8220 |
Comparative Example |
20 |
L |
0 |
0 |
54 |
2 |
21 |
23 |
91 |
1.8 |
1.35 |
1475 |
1721 |
19 |
26 |
32699 |
44746 |
Example |
21 |
M |
0 |
0 |
58 |
1 |
18 |
23 |
95 |
1.7 |
0.75 |
1265 |
1564 |
18 |
32 |
28152 |
50048 |
Example |
22 |
N |
11 |
0 |
44 |
2 |
33 |
10 |
94 |
1.7 |
0.72 |
924 |
1276 |
16 |
31 |
20416 |
39556 |
Comparative Example |
Note: α: polygonal ferrite UB: upper bainite LB: lower bainite FM: quenched martensite
TM: tempered martensite γ: retained austenite |
[0077] As indicated in Table 3, in the case of the examples of the present invention, it
is clarified that steel sheets simultaneously having high strength and excellent workability
were obtained from the fact that TS was 1320 MPa or more, the value of (TS × T.EL)
was 18000 MPa·% or more, and the value of (TS × λ) was 40000 MPa·% or more for all
the examples, the expressions λ ≥ 32% and T.EL ≥ 16% were satisfied for a TS of 1320
MPa or more and less than 1470 MPa, and the expressions λ ≥ 25% and T.EL ≥ 15% were
satisfied for a TS of 1470 MPa or more.